On Tuesday, Senator Mitch McConnell’s office sent out an email summarizing remarks from fellow senators and acquaintances, indicating he had conversations with the former majority leader covering similar topics. However, there was no new information regarding his health despite an almost month-long hospitalization.
Friends and colleagues, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and CNN commentator Scott Jennings, shared similar sentiments about McConnell, which were subsequently relayed in the email acquired by the Daily Caller News Foundation. The email noted, “As the senator continues to recover, we will keep you informed. We want to highlight the following tweets. The statement from McConnell’s spokesperson reads: ‘Senator McConnell appreciates the tremendous support he is receiving as he continues to recover in the hospital. He remains engaged with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while Congress is out of session.’
The email reiterated certain points, including the duration of his conversations and the topics discussed. Thune had a phone call with McConnell on Monday, where they engaged in a detailed discussion about national security, among other issues, according to sources.
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Jennings indicated on Tuesday that they had spoken with McConnell for around 20 minutes, covering various political subjects like the Maine Senate race and the situation in Iran.
“Senator Barrasso and Senator McConnell had a substantial conversation earlier,” said Kate Noyce, Barrasso’s communications director. “Their call lasted about 20 minutes and included updates on Senate elections, the Graham Platner scandal, and a recent Supreme Court ruling. They also addressed the Senate’s upcoming work period, focusing on the need to pass the NDAA and confirm President Trump’s nominee for director of national intelligence. Sen. McConnell is eager to return to the Senate.”
Jennings mentioned, “I spoke with my friend Mitch McConnell, who is still in the hospital. We talked for almost 20 minutes…discussing the situation in Iran, Ukraine, Maine, and even Senate history. I encouraged him to return to work as soon as possible.”
McConnell’s office reported that he is “improving” while recovering and is “working closely with staff on Kentucky and Senate matters.” A spokesperson conveyed, “Senator McConnell is grateful for the immense support he has received as he recuperates in the hospital.”
Utah Senator Mike Lee noted he was unaware of McConnell’s condition, implying that others might be equally in the dark.
McConnell was admitted to the hospital on June 14 after being found unconscious at home, requiring CPR due to cardiac arrest. Thune reported the following day that McConnell was engaged and communicative during the legislative session.
McConnell’s wife, former Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, traveled to China while he was hospitalized, and his daughter disabled her social media accounts amid growing speculation on his health.
At 84 years old, McConnell was previously hospitalized in February for flu-like symptoms and spent several days in intensive care. Staff members had often been spotted assisting him around the Capitol, following incidents including a few falls and moments of being frozen during cameras.
McConnell announced in December 2024 that he would step down as Senate Republican leader after two decades, later confirming he would not seek re-election when his term ends in January 2027. Republican Representative Andy Barr won the Kentucky Senate Republican primary in May and is anticipated to succeed McConnell in November.
